R.I. to seek dismissal of challenge to pension law

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A judge in Rhode Island will hear arguments in the high-stakes legal dispute over sweeping changes to the state’s public retirement system.

Public-sector unions are suing to overturn the 2011 law, which raised retirement ages, suspended pension increases and changed benefits for thousands of retired and active government workers and teachers. Friday’s hearing in Providence will feature arguments on the state’s motion to dismiss the challenge.

State leaders argue the law was necessary and will save taxpayers billions of dollars in future years.

But unions argue the changes are illegal and that alternatives should have been considered.

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Gov. Lincoln Chafee (CHAY’-fee) supports the law but says he’s willing to negotiate with unions to end the lawsuit.

The case could have big implications for other states seeking to rein in pension costs.